Fish Eat Flies

Latest trip with Oakley

2012-01-30T22:36:00.007-07:00

This past Christmas break has probably my busiest ever but I was able to get out a few times and make some casts. My lovely wife and I bought our first home and it's been a dream come true. I'm pretty excited to have an office again to study in and more importantly tying flies and other tackle-craft projects. Oakley, our 4 yo golden retriever paid the price as we didn't have a fence at the new house so we had to leave him at the old house until we were completely moved in. So I decided to let him tag along during my latest adventure. Oakley hasn't been the best fishing companion in the past. But this trip he did very well. I don't know if it was the 38* weather, a taste of freedom, or just maturity, but Oakley kept by my side and seldom went ahead to check out and usually spook the pool ahead. I was able to catch bows, browns, and one cutt in about 4 hours. Looking forward to many more fishing trips to come this year!

My favorite fish of the trip was also the largest. There is a lot of brush fallen into this slow-moving stream and behind one pile I could see a shadow moving back and forth in the current. I cast down stream and used the tension to load my rod and fling a cast right up the butt of the brush. I let the #6 brown semi-seal bugger sink for a moment.........strip....strip..strike! I love how visual streamer fishing is!

My boys make me laugh

2011-12-26T01:23:00.001-07:00

I might be bias but this is about as good as it gets. The end is the best part.

Study Break

2011-09-13T00:28:00.003-06:00

I'm already sick of school, day-dreaming about something more rewarding

Football Bows and Boulder Brookies

2011-08-22T22:26:00.002-06:00

I took the opportunity to make one last trip before school started. It was kind of spur of the moment so I had to go solo. I started heading east and decided to stop at a small stream I've driven by for years but never fished. It's near a tourist trap and most likely full of planted nasties so I always wrote it off as a waste of time. But I decided if anything the fish would be spooky and the challenge would make things interesting. The first fifteen minutes went by without even seeing a fish and then I hooked into a football bow with a zeal for aerobatics. It had a full set of fins and covered in vivid colors. Soon after I hooked into many more great looking fish with a few mangled planters mixed in. I had a hard time pulling myself away from this little gem, but I had a mission...Big Boulder Brookies! On the way there, I stopped at a road-side BBQ to grab a brisket sandwich. They were out of everything but full racks of ribs...normally $22 I got one for $13!

I made the trip to Pillsbury Pond earlier this summer and hooked into some pretty nice fish. I arrived at the trail-head around 5:30pm with no other car in site. It started to lightly rain as I began to hike. My legs burned as my mind raced at the possibility of having this lake to myself. I decided to pack in my float-tube in hopes of having more room to cast. This lake has steep banks with trees right to the edge, giving little area to cast. Light rain turned into a downpour as I arrived at my destination. I hurried to rig up and got into position. Right as I was making my first few casts of the evening a flash of lightning directly followed by crashing thunder shook me to the core. Isn't there some rule about counting the time between lightning and thunder? It's called the 30/30 rule...Well I followed the rule of 10, if I could count to ten between thunder crashes I was good to go. I was lucky in both no becoming a crispy critter, catching a few nice fish, and having the lake completely to myself.

I hiked out in pitch darkness excited to return in the morning. I had hotdogs and cream corn for dinner and went to bed. 5am came early and I got up and going for another day of fishing. The weather had cleared and I knew I would first on the water. I didn't fair as well as the day prior but I was able to pick up a few more respectable fish and a BUF Brookie from the depths of hell. My only regret was mistakenly tying some semi-seal leeches on light wire hooks as I lost a fish comparable to one of my largest last trip to a snapped hook. Oh...and I'm going to invest in some 2x.

I made some rib-meat sandwiches for lunch and headed home.

On the way back I hit another flash flood through Red Canyon. There were about 25 cars at a stand-still. I bypassed the rubber-necking tourists and drove on through until I reached what was stopping traffic. A mudslide had washed over the road and no one dared drive over it. Once the first one made it over without incident, I hopped back in the car and made my getaway. I had to stop later for a photo-op. What was a dry wash the day before was a ragging torrent of angry mud.

Dedicated to the memory of POS 1997. We had a good run but we all have our time.

Fishy Fun From Last-week

2011-08-14T16:47:00.002-06:00

Willow Creek with the Family

2011-07-23T01:02:00.004-06:00

I'm sorry to my viewers that dislike how this has become a family blog as much as a fishing blog. But what can I say, I'm a lucky man to have a family involved in my passion. It's how I find balance right now.

We hit Willow Creek Mountain last week and had a great family camping trip. Thanks to the camp trailer we were able to have another successful trip with two small children. We had luck on our side as we drove down a dirt road that got rougher and rougher with no way to turn around with our camp trailer behind us. Luckily we came upon a nice little meadow with a little stream running through it. We caught fish only feet from our campsite and put memories in the bank to draw on later.

Willow Creek was a little high but still rewarded us for our efforts.

2011-07-09T22:13:00.003-06:00

I just returned from a 2-day trip. I didn't fish anywhere new but each place has haunted me in the past. I fell great about my success at each spot including catching the largest Brookie of my life. The second largest is documented as like most fish stories go, the biggest flipped out of my net before I could get a good picture (I have a picture of it in my net but it really doesn't do it justice so I will leave it out). I'm not really impressed with my camera-work but I was very impressed with this trip. But I won't bore you with many details...

Drove through just after a flash flood washed out part of the hillside into the road, I should have stopped to show the carnage in the wash. It was a raging chocolate milkshake.

2011-06-10T17:19:00.003-06:00

We've gone to Little Res. every spring since Connor was first born. This time Connor hooked and landed his first fish on the fly! It was not much smaller then my first fish on the fly some 17 years ago. Connor's first fish was on a #18 zebra midge, mine on a #16 flash-back PT. I was 13 and Connor is 3. Both remarkable achievements and the first of many throughout our lifetimes.

Palomino Pleasures

2011-05-14T11:54:00.008-06:00

Kyle and I finally got out for some long overdue fishing. Rumor had it a local stillwater was starting to pop so we decided to investigate. When we arrived things looked good, but after ham and eggs gave us a report that fishing was slow, our hopes were a little dashed. We made our way over to the spillway and started our day. My 1st cast came up empty, but 2nd, 3rd, & 4th all rewarded me with fish. This is the second time to fish this lake and the first to catch fish. There are some beautiful Cutts in this lake

Kyle was a little slow on the stick but hooked into a nice albinoish trout he adamantly classified as Palomino. We caught well over a dozen fish in only a few hours. It seems that Kyle and I have been cursed every fishing trip together; until now we never seemed to catch fish on trips together...nice to break the curse.

Leeches were the meal of the day. I tied up a few blood leeches with a red craft bead the night before and was happy I did.

Cold, Windy, Skunky Weekend

2011-05-03T22:24:00.006-06:00

My day started at 3:45am Friday morning. I got up and went to my 2nd to last nursing clinical this semester and decided to go fishing after I was done at 5pm. I drove back home, loaded up and pulled out of Cedar with the tent trailer in tow. I arrived at my destination just before midnight and furiously looked for a place to set up camp. I was hoping to find a spot close to the lake in hopes of taking breaks during the next day to warm up. The temperature read 14* F, snow was flying and there was a strong wind making it feel much colder. After nearly getting buried to my axles in snow I found a small pull-out along the side of the road. By the time I got set up, I was completely worn-out. I slept well that night thinking of what was to come in the morning.

I checked out the lake the night before and found 50 yards of open water around the North end of the lake. I started where the main creek runs into the lake. I was happy I purchased a step-ladder to stand on as the water was cold and the extra altitude gave me a good perspective of what was going on. I hooked one fish at this location but it unbuttoned before I landed it. I moved around the rest of the lake with no other luck. At the last place I stopped I spotted two huge fish cruise right in front of me as I flogged water. Not sure if they were Lake-trout but they were well over 30". What was to be a full weekend I cut short and went home with my head held low. I still have a lot to learn when it comes to stillwater. The cold, windy weather didn't add any luck, but hopefully gave me good juju to draw on later this season.

Sucker bait-fish

2011-04-27T00:37:00.005-06:00

Tried my hand at some bait-fish patterns to imitate suckers. I'm planning to get away this weekend and hopefully hook my first Mac on the fly. I used MFC "Widow's Web" and "FishIze" on a 1/0 saltwater hook. Wish me luck...

We've Got a Winner!

2011-04-18T17:17:00.004-06:00

I was lucky enough to catch the drawing over at Hopper Juan's site and win! Looking forward to my prize of free goodies.

Chocolate Milk in Snake Canyon

2011-04-15T22:09:00.007-06:00

Made a quick trip back to Snake Canyon to camp with the family. The conditions weren't as good as last time, but we still caught a fish. Connor did a great job reeling it in and then switching off to net it. Caleb was zen master in the toddler pack as I waded through the river with him on my back. Katy's new waders and boots fit well and made her an official fly-fishing chick. Only complant was I lost my new MFC mitten scissor-clamps.

Sandy Mite

2011-04-10T01:26:00.005-06:00

This is my first Sandy Mite that came out close to what I think it should. As I've never seen an original Sandy Mite, I'm going off the description of Craig and a few pictures I can find online. Craig told me the last fishing trip he was able to share with his father the only fly his father would use was a Sandy Mite. During this trip, John didn't catch a single fish but he refused to try anything else because this fly was so special to him.

Years after hearing this story it finally dawned on me to try and find information about this fly and tie a few up for Craig and I to fish in memory of his father. I am pleased to be that much closer to this goal becoming a reality.

Looking forward to summer

2011-04-03T14:57:00.005-06:00

Can't wait for school to end and fishing to really begin! Thought I'd share a couple over-gimped pics.

2011-03-30T22:41:00.004-06:00

Sometimes the fishing is too good to worry about pictures. All bows, smallest 10" & largest 18". I seldom walk away from Snake Canyon disappointed.

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-30T00:16:00.006-06:00

Finally got out to use the camp trailer. We went east and ended up staying two nights in the Escalante, UT area. The trailer was a must for taking the little guys camping. Didn't fish much, but got to enjoy the great outdoors.

There is some incredible geology in this area. I'm really impressed with the quality of shots from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS PAS I recently picked up.

It's a MOALacle!

2011-03-27T15:16:00.007-06:00

I finally got out to hit the bass pond with Chester the Molester. There was a crew working on the water inlet and the pond was as low as we've seen it. With my trusty Cocoons bug shields, I spotted a few LM bass hanging out by a rock. After a technical 54' cast I was able to coax one out with a MOAL. When I first tied up the MOAL two years ago, I thought I'd found a new form of sliced bread. But it didn't prove so dynamite, but it was great to finally catch a fish on a MOAL.

I've had my eye out for a horse rockin' a light tan mane. I want to tie a Sandy Mite, but until now I wasn't able to locate all the ingredients. With the help of Kyle, we were able to acquire enough horse mane to complete this goal.

Great Online Store

2011-01-19T21:30:00.012-07:00

Since I can't seem to get out to fish, there's not much else to do then acquire gear and tie flies. I've ordered from Dream Drift Flies a number of occasions and I give their customer service an A+. They have great prices on Montana Fly Company's innovative products. I'd give you the full list of the items I recently acquired, but since Mrs. FEF patrols this site I better not elaborate too much.

These extended bodies make for some fun bugs to fling out to the fishies.

I had a pair of scissor clamps come up missing last spring and had yet to replace them. These mitten model scissor clamps fit the bill. They were a little stiff out of the package, but with a little reel oil they easily open and close. They have a smooth front & rough rear texture on the forceps portion and a very sharp scissor blade in back. I hate dealing with zip cords when I'm releasing a fish or clipping tippit, so I really like the little spike that holds the tool secure when it's clamped onto an article of clothing or your vest. The matte black color is great for small stream fishing because trying to sneak up on a fish wearing a pair of forceps that could double as a signal mirror doesn't quite add up.

The MFC hooks are scary sharp but priced like Mustads. Offered in 25 and 100 packs, buy the 100 packs because they are just that good!

***All pictures were ganked from the DDF website. I'm in no way affiliated with DDF, just a satisfied customer***

2011-01-05T09:41:00.006-07:00

I got Mrs. FEF I set of Redington Chena River waders and boots for Christmas. I'm sure years down the road I'll catch shit for not giving her a necklace or something shiny. But we are both excited to get out on the water together and enjoy the peace of the outdoors.

Fake High Dynamic Range (HDR) images with GIMP

2010-12-30T02:00:00.018-07:00

I love the way this picture of Connor came out when I first took it. But with this new technique, it really made for a great shot! This is the first picture I've used this method on, but I was so excited I thought i would share. I've always been impressed by HDR pictures and thought I needed an expensive digital SLR and an ability to shoot in RAW to create one. But with the help of Google and a little luck, I was able to come across a way to do it ghetto style. And for those that know me, the more ghettoerest the bettererest! The following video shows how to improve images dramatically with GIMP. Although this isn't truly HDR, it does create vivid images.

I've found that scenery and fish are enhanced well by this technique. But hero shots and portraits do not come out as well because skin tone is too unnatural. In the last picture with Kyle's snagged brookie, the original thumbnail looks better, but once the pictures are viewed at larger size the Fake HDR is much better.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS2

2010-12-27T20:42:00.007-07:00

I've ruined two cameras while fishing after taking a misstepped plunge into the water. The last victim was a Casio Exilim I killed last summer. I've been using a Canon I borrowed from my dad since July, but didn't really like it. I really wanted a camera that could take abuse and still produce good picture quality. To make matters worse, I also needed good video because this was to be the family camera to document my two runt's childhood. I narrowed my choices down to the Panasonic TS2 and the Sony TX5. But the Panasonic was $60 cheaper and rated to have better video so I pulled the trigger last night. I hope it's as good as advertised. There seems to be some really cool features that I'm excited to try out. With this new toy I can add more to fisheatflies, which has been non-existent for quite a while. I've been hard at work at the vise and I want to share my creations with the general public.

Boulder's Fall 2010

2010-10-20T23:12:00.004-06:00

I've been pinned between work, school, and family this fall so I was really looking forward to the Boulders with Kyle and Matt. It was nice to hike in the great fall colors, but the trip was far from epic; which makes all the flack I caught from work for playing hooky rub me a little raw. But in the end, a day fishing is always better then a day stuck in class or at work. I just wish I could keep fish on after I hook them. But there's always next time...

Check out Kyle's report for the details.

I used the Lamson Konic a little and caught one small Cutt. Too soon for a review, but I didn't hate it.

Lamson Konic

2010-10-11T12:48:00.009-06:00

I picked up a Lamson Konic 2 last week to house my Airflo type 3 line. I'm headed to the Boulders tomorrow for what will likely be my only fishing trip this fall; I'm really looking forward to it. Stay tuned for my trip report and my review of this reel.

*Picture taken from Waterworks/Lamson website.

R&R on the Brookie Meadow

2010-09-15T21:00:00.008-06:00

Lately this site has turned into more of a family blog then a fishing blog. But within the last year, I realized I was forsaking my family for fishing and I felt like a chump. Tonight I skipped my study group to go in the mountains with the family for some much needed R&R for both Katy and I. Katy didn't stray much from her M.O. and caught fish while holding Caleb; except this time Caleb was in a sling instead of her womb. The little brookies were very aggressive towards our flies. In the short time we fished this little meadow stream, many fish were risen and quite a few made it to hand.

Retro Bass

2010-09-13T23:14:00.003-06:00

This is a throw back to simpler times when I could play in the mud and get fish slime on my hands. This is on my Georgia Grandpa's Pond circa 1983. That's me holding the bass.

Connor on Willow Creek

2010-09-11T21:30:00.004-06:00

As planned, Connor and I went fishing this afternoon. We had a water safety discussion before we started and he did very well following the rules. It was a great joy to watch my boy have so much fun reeling in fish. This is only the beginning.

Purple Haze and The Stoned-Beetle

2010-09-10T23:40:00.003-06:00

I plan to take Connor to Willow Creek tomorrow. So tonight we tied up a few morsels to entice the locals. Last time I was there, I spanked them on a #14 Purple Haze. I also tied up a few #10 Stoned-hoppers, but once they were complete, they looked more like a beetle...hence the name.

I haven't had much to post lately, but hopefully I'll have something tomorrow. With a new baby, full-time work, and just starting my first year of school to become a Murse, I don't anticipate many fishing trips this Fall.

2010-09-06T08:52:00.007-06:00

Caleb John Anderson

September 4 2010

10:13pm 6 lbs 15 oz 19.5"

MGMT "Congratulations" (vinyl)

2010-08-08T12:02:00.002-06:00

From my nephew's collection.

The Purple Haze Blew My Mind!

2010-08-07T20:22:00.018-06:00

I went to Willow Creek on Thursday for probably one of the last fishing trips this year. The weather didn't look like it was going to cooperate and right when we arrived it started pouring buckets of rain. But as soon as the rain started it was over and the sky and stream stayed clear the entire evening. I started with the StonedHopper but only caught a few fish in the first few likely spots. But when I switched to a #14 Purple Haze the fish started slamming it kamikaze style. Fish were completely jumping out of the water for the fly. By the end of the night I caught over 50 fish in less then 4 hours. They were never larger then 11", but fun nonetheless.

I'd like to thank the guys from Fishtech for taking the time to help me round-up all the materials for this fly. I went to about three other shops before ending up at Fishtech and no one prior could help me out. For those unfamiliar with the Purple Haze, it's basically a Parachute Adams with a purple Flex-Floss body. I sometimes add a dubbed thorax of purple dubbing mixed with UV Pink Ice Dub.

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention

2010-08-01T12:17:00.006-06:00

I attended a four day training in SLC this past week to be a certified Non-Violent Crisis Intervention instructor for my agency. I hoped to mix business with pleasure and fish as much as possible working around the training schedule. As I drove up, I planned to fish Willow Creek, but severe thunderstorms changed this plan. But I was able to find a break in the storm and semi-clear water on Fremont Flats. I was excited to fish my newly repaired 3wt. The Stoned Hopper was the preferred method and with a dozen fish under my belt in a hour, I moved on.

After the first day of training, Craig met me in downtown SLC and we headed to the cabin outside Oakley, UT. The water dropped at least 12" since the beginning of July. We were still able to find willing fish, but not as many as last time. I caught most of my fish in a para-Adams, but my largest Cutt fell victim to the Stoned-Hopper.

I wasn't able to get out and fish again until the trip home. I chose Fremont Flats as my playground, but the water had a lot of chocolate milk mixed in making it less productive. I threw the Stoned-Hopper and streamers picking up fish 50/50 on both methods.

Family Cabin Fishing Fun

2010-07-20T11:20:00.009-06:00

We were able to make it to Katy's family cabin outside Oakley, UT a few weeks ago. It was a wonderful experience and great to watch Katy master her skills. She still hadn't had a phenomenal day of fly fishing up to this point. We went out the evening before and Katy was able to hook a few small Brookies and Cutts. But the next afternoon the heavens opened. With five other family members fishing the same small run, Katy hit a streak and caught some very nice fish on my Stoned-Hopper. It was a great setting for Katy to have all the elements come together.

Katy's brother Sam rocked some hammer pants and also found some willing participants. I'd like to use the excuse I was helping the others get into fish and giving up the best spots. But my fishy-juju was off and I only managed a few fish to hand. It must have been the whitefish slaughter I put on the morning before fishing the Upper Weber that gave me bad karma.

I've spent much of my fishing time this summer with my family. I've really enjoyed sharing my passion of fly fishing with Katy and Connor. I'm not sure how many more trips I'll get under my belt this year, but I have many fond memories to keep me going through the next year of school and new baby .

Backyard Bushwhack

2010-06-24T14:57:00.006-06:00

I decided to break ground on my own backyard playground last Wednesday. I spent most of the time clearing away stream side willows and breaking dead growth that stood in the way of victory. I plan to clear more of the stream each time I visit so I have multiple beats to fish when I need a quickie.

Family Fishing on 2nd Creek- the sequel

2010-06-24T14:54:00.006-06:00

I spent last Monday on 2nd Creek with the family. I really wanted Katy to catch a bunch of fish on a small stream. She was a great sport trudging through the water to appease me. She is in her third trimester with our second child and it's getting harder for her to keep her balance. The water was perfect and the fish were willing.

Connor brought his net along to help us land and release fish. He was careful not to squeeze them too hard, but he gave a few flying lessons.

Stoned Hopper

2010-06-21T23:22:00.005-06:00

I sat down at the vise a few weeks ago with the goal of tying some Stimulaters, but I forgot how much hackle those bastards take to make. So after wasting a perfectly good saddle hackle on one fly, I decided to go a different route.

There are a few variations in material for this fly, but the basic pattern is as follows...

Hook: 2x long med-light wire hook or a Daiichi 1270 or similar hook (size 6-10)

Tail: End of foam, biots optional

Body: Foam under-body (Evazote strip 1/8" wide or med "Rainy's" float foam with dubbing over it

Under-wing: "Hareline no-fray wing material" or transparent ribbon (from craft store) cut to shape.

Over-wing: Elk hair

Head: Deer hair bullet-head or Evazote foam (hook gape wide) tied in with dubbing ball over tie-in and then folded back over the top and tied down.

Legs: Two strands of rubber-leg material of choice.

Father's Day Fishing 2010

2010-06-17T22:43:00.006-06:00

It's a yearly tradition to fish with Craig for father's day on Willow Creek. I was looking forward to fish some big dries to stupid trout and the Stonefly I've been recently tying was just the ticket. The beaver pond that's held strong for the last 4+ years couldn't take the beating of this years runoff.

We were able to catch a few fish each on Willow Creek, but the flows were still quite high and the water was a little chalky. We decided to go up further and see if 2nd Creek was better. I took the family up there a couple weeks ago and it was a big meadow of bog.

2nd Creek was perfect in flow and clarity. I hooked up right away with fish in each of the first three holes. We both caught our fair share of fish until the light faded. What a great way to spend an evening.

Six Fingers Creek

2010-06-14T00:38:00.008-06:00

The plan was to drop Connor off with my mom and fish for two days. But life is never that simple and work had to be done. But I ended up getting out Saturday for the first part of the day with Matt. We fished lower in this drainage a couple weeks ago and had mixed results. With scattered rain the last 24 hours, we bypassed the usual stomping grounds for something new and higher

up the mountain.

We hiked up the deep canyon and hooked a mixed bag of Cutts and Browns. No fly pattern transcended as the clear winner but a #6 Stonefly on top was my favorite. It felt good to fish a dry after what seemed an eternity of nymphing; if you can call chucking SJW patterns nymphing

Family Fishing on 2nd Creek

2010-06-04T00:52:00.008-06:00

I was hoping to replicate my latest trip to Willow Creek today with Katy and Connor. But as we drove further up the canyon, I could see run-off had different plans. The road to 2nd creek was completely covered by snow a couple weeks ago, but today the roads were clear all the way there.

The stream was running higher then I'd expected, but it was the only realistic chance to fish moving water on this mountain. The valley floor is a braided labyrinth of willows, beaver ponds, bogs, and water channels of various sizes weaving in and out of the main stream. The key was to find deep cuts in slower water where current was running in.

Last year I found the SJW to be the ticket and today was no different. Connor really enjoyed getting a close look at the fish and petting them. We all stayed dry and had a very enjoyable family outing without having to fling steel.

Where's the Bacon?

2010-06-02T23:21:00.003-06:00

Mr. Passive-aggressive is trying to prove a point. Please go over and give him some feedback on the many (or specific) uses for the Mustad 37160 hook. Even if it's been said, drill the point home!

Connor's First Waders

2010-06-01T02:05:00.007-06:00

I ordered these waders from Outdoor Adventure Kid Co. last week and they arrived just in time for our trip up to see my dad. Connor had a blast wading in the stream at the mouth of Payson Canyon.

Willow Creek with Worms

2010-05-21T00:15:00.018-06:00

I went on a reconnaissance mission to gauge the progress of the run-off at a local haunt I hold dear. The past couple years I started at 2nd creek and worked my way down the mountain as the water calms and clears. As I drove higher up the mountain, I could see there was much more snow then years past. As I pulled off the highway onto the dirt road that leads to 2nd creek, my heart sank; the road was completely covered in 2-3 feet of snow. But all hope wasn't lost because while driving up, I noticed Willow Creek and the canyon just below wasn't as high and dirty as I had anticipated.

I knew I wasn't likely to hook-up on top, so I tied on my favorite pattern for such an occasion...a worm. I'm not talking about those wiggly, slimy tubes of meat that come in Styrofoam cups, I mean a San Juan Worm and its many bastard offspring. In the last year, the worm has become a staple in my fly box. Some might call that digression in the sport of fly fishing, but I just call it common sense.

I experimented with a few other patterns, but none worked as consistently as the worm. It only took a few moments to figure out the code for catching these fish. When I found slow, deep water among the ciaos of whipping current, I tucked my cast as close to the edge as possible and pounded the hole until it wouldn't give up any more fish. Most of the good holes I came upon rewarded me with multiple catches. Even if I missed a strike or two, if i was persistent, I would eventually catch my prize.

Pounding a run or hole over 20 casts is foreign from my style of small stream fishing. I usually give each spot a few tries and move on. But since there were only a handful of good holes, I took my time. I started with my 5wt, but soon grew tired of raking the fish right in. These fish are not brutes by any means, but when I switched to my 2wt it really got fun. I caught nearly two dozen browns and bows up to 11-12" within a couple hundred yards of the stream.

I took a lunch break before moving down into the canyon below Willow Creek. Beef and vegetable stew was on the menu and it hit the spot.

Within moments of wetting my line in this new section, I was into multiple fish. But as I moved further up the canyon, the walls narrowed as the catch rate fell off. I only picked up about a 1/2 dozen more fish in this section before I headed home.

Goldfish On The Fly

2010-05-13T23:08:00.003-06:00

The plan was to take Connor up Cedar Canyon to the kid's pond at Woods Ranch. The road to the pond was completely covered in snow. I drove back towards home, but Connor had his heart set on going fishing. I drove him down the St George and after picking up his cousin, we hit the community pond scene. Not much action on the rainbow, sparkle powerbait or white marshmallows, but we picked one up on a blue/silver Kastmaster. I was also able to coax one of the many resident goldfish to a Butch Caddis.

Bassin' Below

2010-05-09T23:09:00.009-06:00

I finally got down to the bass pond with Kyle this week. We tried a mid-day trip on Wednesday to no avail. But we met up again with Matt on Saturday morning and gave it another shot. A few bass were fooled, but nothing on top. These bass are stout, hard-fitting SOBs and my 12 weight rod was just the ticket to give them hell. Didn't bring a scale, but I'm pretty sure I broke the 3 lb mark and completed the first FF goal for 2010.

After many attempts to get bendo on his fairy-wand, Kyle resorted to chucko-casting while Matt entertained with music and dance from the movie Annie.

Little Reservoir

2010-05-09T22:53:00.006-06:00

The last few years, I've kicked off the beginning of the "fair weather" fishing season on Little Reservoir with my family. Within the last year, Connor is much more interested in fishing and is able to reel fish in mostly by himself. Connor asks to go fishing almost every day. We are excited to add a new face to the scene at the end of this summer; Connor's getting a little brother!

2010-05-06T23:50:00.005-06:00

Steve and I made a quick trip to wet some flies this evening. We first stopped at the Meadows and found the flow was fishable, but the water was off-color. I was able to stick one small brown in the first run. But after an hour without even a bump, we decided to try plan B. We headed to Big Fish Lake in hopes of finding better results.

The lake had recently lost its icing, so the water was very nippy. Steve hooked into a few fat bows while I whipped the water with my line. I was happy to witness Steve grin from ear to ear as he landed his largest trout yet on the fly.

Salmonfly Adult

2010-05-04T00:49:00.005-06:00

This is a little something I've been working on. I got the body from Dream Drift Flies and really like how these came out. It's kind of a ripoff of Cheech's Petite Sirloin. Hope it gets crushed by some fish lips soon.

Jacksonville Florida Fishing Blues

2010-04-21T19:18:00.015-06:00

I've wanted to fish salt with a fly for quite some time. I finally got the opportunity last Monday. It was kind of a last minute plan, but I did my best to take advantage of the situation. I dropped my sister off at the airport in Jacksonville at 5:15am and I was on my way to Fort George Island east of Jacksonville soon after. It's not much more then 30 min to my destination, but after the runaround trying to get a license, it was past 7:30am before I wet a line.

I spent most of my time in the Jacksonville Huguenot Park. I parked within 50 yards of the beach and started casting. I spoke to a few bait fisherman who were catching Whiting on dead shrimp. I walked where Shad Creek came in and fished the confluence. I had a few missed strikes and saw a couple fish slash at my fly, but I couldn't seem to find the right rhythm.

I fished with a few flies I tied last minute before flying out from Utah. I caught a Bluefish on the glass minnow clouser. This is my first saltwater fish on a fly and it's a trophy to me! I can't wait to get back out on the salt!

I saw an array of sea-life while walking the shoreline including a sea turtle, stingrays and busting bait-fish. I waded about mid-thigh deep into the water and as I was walking out, I about stepped on this jellyfish. It was hard to get a good shot since it wanted to stay deeper in the off-color water.

Bassin' in Georgia

2010-04-21T19:16:00.006-06:00

I got more fishing in then I expected this trip. What was to be a celebration of my grandfather's birthday turned into a celebration of my late uncles life. Wasn't sure how kosher it would be to fish in my uncle's pond just days after he died. But I don't visit Georgia enough to worry about appearances. I have to say, waiting for a LMB to come up and slam my offering is mighty addicting. I think I will pursue bass much more after this trip.

My cousin JT is a fine fisherman at 11. He defiantly has the spark to become obsessed with the sport. He was probably the only person who didn't give me crap about fly fishing. But it was fun to catch fish with a fly rod right after the Georgia folk would laugh about my gear.

Day 1 field testing in GA.

2010-04-16T22:44:00.006-06:00

Just a little taste of today's fishing. The Googly-eyed Frog and Mutant Mouse did their job on some small bass. Not sure how much more I can fish this trip, but hoping to salt some flies near Jacksonville, FL on Monday.

2010-04-11T19:52:00.002-06:00

Got a micro-tug on the 2wt. Not much else to say.

Happy Easter!!!!

2010-04-03T23:39:00.009-06:00

My Googly-eyed frog was doing that while I was doing this...

Phuckin' Easter Bunny ruined the egg hunt. Connor wouldn't let me put him down; he thought that bunny in the fire truck would snatch 'em up if he tried to steal his eggs.

It can be rough out there...Be Careful!!!

2010-03-24T19:05:00.002-06:00

Brown Trout on the DF

2010-03-21T10:40:00.009-06:00

I had a short window to get my fishing in. As I drove up the canyon, I was still unsure where to spend my allotted 3 hours. I finally chose a section of river I had never fished before. On my fourth cast, I connected to a small brown on a #16 white bead PT midge. I continued to catch chunky 11"-13" Browns as I moved up. Most good holes rewarded me with a fish or two.

I came upon a small bend in the river and as I looked over the edge of the bank through the clear water, I saw a flash of golden brown. On my 6th or 7th cast, I connected to a my target. After a respectful fight, I netted a 17" Brown. I just about moved on past the hole thinking I caught the resident big boy, but I decided one more cast in the head of the pool wouldn't hurt. Right away my indicator stopped. Just as the thought crossed my mind that I was snagged on the other side, an 18" brown, fatter then the last, came topside. I was elated to catch two nice Browns in the same hole. One more fish came to hand before I had to leave.

Patagonia Waders and Boots

2010-03-12T09:32:00.012-07:00

I bought the Watermaster-light waders from Sierra Trading Post last fall. I mistakenly got a Large-King instead of a Large-Long, but they seemed to fit just fine. These waders were defiantly light, because after only about 8 trips out they had leaks. The material seemed to just rub off, exposing my chicken legs to unwanted cold moisture.

I bought a pair of Riverwalker Sticky-sole boots the Fall of 2008. I was impressed by how light they were. After only a few trips, they were broken in and super comfortable. I really enjoyed how well these boots performed in and out of the water. But after 1.5 years of hard use, the stitching began to come loose and the sole of one of the boots began to delaminate.

I sent the waders and boots into Patagonia about 6 weeks ago. I asked for them to repair the boots and asked about the chance of upgrading to a more durable wader. I included my Credit Card info and hoped for the best. Patagonia's website said the turnaround time for repairs was at least 6 weeks.

One of the main reasons I bought Patagonia was their reputation for great customer satisfaction. But with all the stories I heard of Patagonia making it right for the customer, i never expected what came in a brown box last Wednesday. A Brand new pair of Riverwalker Sticky-sole boots and a brand new pair of Watermaster (not light!) waders. Total charge...$0!

Spring on the Green River

2010-03-11T09:29:00.010-07:00

Ken was nice enough to invite Kyle and I to float the A section of the Green a couple days this week. I floated the Green a couple times as a kid, but this was the first time I fished it with a fly. This was also my first time to fish while drifting. Huckin' meat was on the docket and we all had success.

The drive home got a little dicey, but Kyle kept his wits and had us stop in Filmore for the night.

Sili-Stone

2010-03-04T02:32:00.006-07:00

Sili-Stone

Hook: 3xl curved hook (Dai-Riki #270, Daiichi 1270)

Tail: Base of stripped hackle stem (colored w/brown marker)

Body: Ginger nymph dubbing

Abdomen: Ringneck Pheasant church-window feather (shell-back); ribbed with medium copper/brown wire

Thorax: molted brown Skinny Skin

Legs: 2 strands of Sili-legs tied with overhand knot and one tag clipped

Antenna: Stripped hackle stem (towards tip)

Stonefly Swap Entry

2010-02-25T23:44:00.004-07:00

I signed up to participate in a Stonefly swap on Utahonthefly. I decided to experiment a little at the vise tonight. Here's the result.

Don't be stupid!

2010-02-25T09:13:00.004-07:00

While organizing my pack, I found a Zebra Midge with some tippet attached. "I'll just pull on it to break the tippet...", stupid idea!

Better Foam Frog Fly

2010-02-15T01:52:00.007-07:00

I thought I had a masterpiece yesterday with my prototype foam frog. But after a few hours in the R&D department, I think I really do have something to squawk about...

Foam Frog

2010-02-13T17:57:00.012-07:00

I recently obtained some foam from Sportsman Warehouse on closeout ($0.59). I've been messing around with different ideas of patterns to use it with. I must say, before this, most of my experience tying with foam was the 2mm craft store variety. This is much thicker and less dense. I think I will break down and buy some more colors in this type of foam.

This is a prototype, but I don't think I will change much. The frog rides hook-side up to avoid the need for a weed-guard. I will be visiting my grandpa in Georgia for his 85th birthday in April. And he has a couple ponds full of lillypads, stumps, and most importantly fish.

In the Land of the Cuttroats - Trailer

2010-01-23T01:13:00.005-07:00

While watching this video, I realized I spend way too much time tromping through the water casting my fly and way too little time just watching. Flyfishing is not only a passion but an outlet to life's sorrows. I hope to spend more time enjoying the creation from him on high for as long as he sees fit to keep me around.

In the Land of the Cutthroats - Trailer from Reel Escape Films on Vimeo.

Copper John

2010-01-22T10:57:00.010-07:00

Zebra Midge

2010-01-21T01:53:00.013-07:00

First Fish of 2010 on Lee's Ferry

2010-01-12T21:22:00.014-07:00

Kyle, Matt, and I started 2010 out on Lee's Ferry. The report said outstanding fishing, but the flows seemed unmanageable. After a quick stop for an AZ license and some 8x tippet, we were on the water. Kyle hooked up first and then Matt. The pressure was on, but soon enough I had a good fish hooked and it was taking line. (after viewing photo proof, it fought larger the it looked)

We worked our way up from the riffles to the rock and we each caught a few fish. Worms seemed to work for me, but I forgot to baptise the bead worm. When the flows raised above a comfortable level, we decided to move on. We stopped at the Wahweap Marina on the way home and I tried to catch a dirty little carp. I thought it would be a slam dunk, but I couldn't seem to set the hook hard enough. Kyle and Matt were patient guides as I missed a few good opportunities. It was quite a rush to watch the carp flair its pectoral fins and slowly glide up to my fly. Next time I'm going to use a fly with the hook point up.

Frosty bag at the beginning of the trip

Free Fly Tying Videos!

2010-01-04T22:39:00.014-07:00

link

The Weekly Fly hit 101 posts and they are offering three free downloads of some great patterns. Every Monday, The Weekly Fly rolls out a new high quality video that will tantalize the tyer's mind. It's like manna from heaven!

Whataya Oneathose Fitness Freaks!

2010-01-03T09:58:00.004-07:00

Warning! If you haven't seen The Departed, you should. (unless the F-word makes your stomach churn)

Falling Short in 2009

2010-01-01T08:22:00.003-07:00

Out of the 12 goals I set last March, I only completed one! I caught a Tiger Trout last July on the Boulder Mountains. I had some close calls on a few other goals, but no cigar. I didn't fish as much as I had planned; and when I did, my skills were bunk. Although I didn't reach my goals, I had a great year meeting new friends, exploring new waters, and adding to my arsenal.

I kept the same goals for this upcoming year, only changing my Tiger Trout Quota to 20+ inches. Between work, school and an addition to the house (well trailer), the next few years don't look very fishy. This upcoming year, I want to concentrate on quality over quantity with more trips to the local trickle to supplement my need for a fishy tug.

Mike

Bead Worm

2009-12-31T18:51:00.007-07:00

Hook: Daiichi 1770 (size 6 pictured)
Thread: Red 6/0
Body: pink ultra chenille & 11/0 red glass seed beads

This pattern is a prototype, but I'm certain it'll hunt on the Ferry next week.

Proud Father

2009-12-19T17:48:00.008-07:00

Connor made some art-work to liven up the "man cave". Thanks Fishy Kid for the raw material.

2009-12-19T16:59:00.005-07:00

I've been without a fishing trip for over a month. I had high hopes to catch a few fish to close out the year. Craig met me at my house and we were on the stream by 1pm. The first stream we stopped at had a little open water down the middle. After a hour we decided to head to the next location and found it was locked up tighter then a nun's twat.

We skipped that stop and headed to our last location. As we drove up the canyon, we could see open water and clear flows. I thought our day had been saved. But when we got to our destination, it was barely open. We decided to scope out the stream before we rigged up. I grabbed my jacket out of the back seat and slammed the door before a passing car hit me. Unfortunately, when I pulled my jacket out, the tip of my rod came with it. The tip snapped in three pieces! I was sick. I rigged my 10-foot giant and tried to redeem the day with at least one fishy tug. Light began to disappear along with the hope of catching. With my head hung low, we loaded up and went home. Not the best way to end the year!

William Joseph Packable Rain Jacket

2009-12-13T20:28:00.003-07:00

I've been cursing not having a good packable rain jacket for quite some time. The $2 emergency poncho loses its luster pretty quick. I hit the WJ sale last week and scored one for $50. I can't wait for winter to pass so I can run it through mother nature's shower.

Solo Mission

2009-11-10T01:00:00.005-07:00

While my buddies left me in the dust and headed north, I stayed back and batted clean-up on a mixed bag of browns, bows, and cutts on my favorite fall stream. Although I haven't caught anything over 16" this fall, I've had a blast with numbers. The scud/hare's ear combo seemed to be the ticket. These little guys can put a nice bendo in the 3wt.

A Guy I Know...

2009-11-02T21:54:00.003-07:00

Check out Chucko's national debut. You've come a long way brother!

New Scissors

2009-10-30T00:13:00.007-06:00

Up until last year, I eeked by with one or two dull pairs of tying scissors for years. But over the last year my scissor collection has grown to over eight pairs of quality scissors and a bunch more destine for cutting foam, wire and anything else nasty. About a year ago I bought a pair of Dr. Slick bent shaft scissors and they are still my favorite. I had a $15 gift certificate from Sierra Trading Post and with free shipping last weekend, I decided to use it towards a couple more Dr. Slick bent shaft scissors. They arrived today and I am stoked to try them out. They have a much smaller cutting blade then my other bent shaft scissors, but I am sure they will get used regularly.

Paraloop Flies

2009-10-29T23:33:00.009-06:00

I tried my hand at paraloop flies last week and horribly failed. I wasn't sure when I would try to do it again. But I recently stumbled across a great fly fishing/tying site with very clean flies and it inspired me to try paraloop hackles again. Upon searching for online videos on paraloop flies, I found two videos that showed the process. The first one required a para-post tool that attaches to the vise (which I will be investing in soon) the second had two really creative tying steps/materials that I plan to employee soon (CDC hackle in a dubbing loop, striped stem of feather for body).

I like the simplicity of this technique. But I about went nuts over how bulky and sloppy the dubbing was. I'm sure it adds to a buggy looking fly, but I cannot stand balled-up dub jobs. It also appears this method requires many turns of hackle. I assume he is using tippet material. I have some clear tying thread that should work nicely for the paraloop.

Be fore-warned, the music will put you to sleep. But I guess its better then hearing some guy explain the steps in a different language. I've never been able to master biot body flies. But with the striped stem technique, I might be able to achieve a similar result.

Quick Trip in my Backyard

2009-10-22T22:48:00.006-06:00

I had a 75 minute window before I had to report to work. It would be close, but I thought I could get at least 45 min of fishing in. I left my house geared up in my waders and when I got to the parking spot, I bolted up the hill. I fished this small creek about a month ago; but with my son and wife in tow, I couldn't explore the harder to reach areas. I cut trail and dropped below my last starting point. It was way too brush-choked to think about throwing a decent cast so I cut my leader back from 8ft to about 5ft. I finally began to find fishable pockets within the labyrinth of branches and caught a couple fish before my alarm warned me I was out of time. I high-tailed it back and made it in to work with minutes to spare.

"Headed North" Trip Report

2009-10-12T00:42:00.014-06:00

Day 1: We headed up to the cabin outside Oakley, Utah to break the drive in half between southern Utah and Idaho. When we reached Summit County, it was lightly snowing; I thought this was a good sign for BWO hatches...wrong. We started on the Smith-Morrhouse and ended the evening on the upper Weber. The water was very low and the fish had no interest in what we had to offer. A little rainbow was all I hooked that evening.

Day 2: We made the rest of the drive the next day and stopped at Warm River Springs late afternoon. There was a 4-man group already working the run below the springs so we headed for a new spot. On the way up, we checked into our cabin at Pond's Lodge and hurried out to fish the Coffee-pot rapids section of the Henry's Fork.

The water was low and clear and I was able to easily wade to the other side. I worked upstream parallel with Craig to no avail. Just before the light of day hid behind the canyon walls, I switched my set-up to dredging bottom. Soon after, my indicator paused and I set the hook. I could see my advisory working its way deeper into the abyss. I stayed with it and finally beached the 18+" fish in a small cove. I couldn't tell if it was a rainbow, cutt, or brown; It attempted to run back in the current a few times until I finally tailed it. Once I touched its tail I knew what I was dealing with...a fuckin' whitey! I was so disappointed, my heart sank. But I have to admit, it was quite the bull-dog fight.

Day 3: We woke up the next morning unsure where to fish. We still had one more day on our Idaho license, but I wasn't very impressed with the fishing and sites thus far. I talked Craig into heading towards the park and try some areas around the West Yellowstone entrance. We took the scenic route around to Raynolds Pass and stopped to look at the Madison. It was still very brisk and a couple anglers had just pulled up and began walking upstream to fish. We thought we might stop again tomorrow and try our luck on the way through the park to Jackson Hole. We drove past Quake and Hebgen Lakes and made it into West Yellowstone just as it began to lightly snow. A quick stop into "Blue Ribbon Flies" to test Craig Mathews on his promise to give good information (it was pretty standard beta) and we headed into the park.
We drove past hoards of fishermen on the Madison & Firehole and ended up trying the Nez Perce. The NP looked fishy, but after about 45 minutes of flogging water we moved on. We stopped just above the upper falls of the Firehole and saw a few rising trout. I was unable to connect on top, but this little guy came to play on a #16 PT. small to say the least, but it was my first Yellowstone fish.

We caught a few more dinks before taking the Firehole Canyon loop and fishing between the falls. I took the opportunity to try out the 9'5" fiberglass 5/6 I just finished before the trip. It took a little to get used to the length and weight, but after a few runs, I adjusted. It mended line very well and made high-sticking a breeze. But it would be too heavy to fish with it all day. Craig and I both caught more dinky rainbows. I caught a 12" brown just below the upper falls pool. We tried the Gibbon for about an hour without any sight of fish. The plan was to hit the Madison on the way out of the park, but heavy snow changed our plans.

Day 4: The next morning, we woke up to very cold temps. Our Jackson Hole connection reported 17 degrees and inches of snow. Our original plan was to drive into Jackson and fish along the way. We planned to float the Gros Ventre the next morning. But due to the swift change in weather, we decided to head south into warmer temps. Good thing we saw the park prior to the storm. We fished a river close to my parents on the way back south. I caught a small brown, but that was all she wrote.

Day 5: We decided to fish a few local haunts on the way home. I took Craig to snake canyon and we tried our luck at the small browns and bows its water holds. But we couldn't buy any action and the casting seemed more difficult then it was worth.

We dropped down into the Fremont flats and began picking up risers in many of the pools. It was nice to catch fish with some consistency; and it didn't hurt they were on top. We planned to fish one more haunt that I seem to do well in the fall. But a gas leak and worried wife put that on hold until another trip.

My first trip to Yellowstone to fish was far from epic, but I learned a few lessons along the way. I think next year we might plan a little earlier in the year and hope the crowds are manageable.

Headed North

2009-10-05T08:12:00.002-06:00

Day 1- Weber/Smith-Morhouse
Day 2&3- Henry's Fork/W. Yellowstone
Day 4 - Gros Ventre (rumors of drift-boat involvement have been mentioned)
Day 5- Still up for debate
Day 6- Back to the daily grind

Patagonia Watermaster Light

2009-09-20T22:06:00.007-06:00

I've been begrudgingly wearing my Sportsman's Warehouse waders from about day one. They leaked soon after buying them and since they were on special, due to being discontinued, I was unable to get a replacement pair. I purchased a pair of Cloudveil Crystal Creek waders later in the year; but they leaked right out of the box. Instead of sending me a replacement pair, Sierra Trading Post gave me a refund (purchased for $130).

I've had my eye on the Watermasters for a while and finally pulled the trigger when I could get them for $107 off STP. Hopefully they perform well enough until I can join the big leagues and splurge on some Simms.

RR on Willow Creek

2009-09-11T14:31:00.008-06:00

Craig and I met at the Shell station and headed up the canyon. We've made this journey many times in the past three years and never once have we been disappointed. After a sour month of missed fishing opportunities, I was in dire need of respite. As we pulled up to the small, willow choked stream, we could see the flow had receded a substantial amount from just one month ago. It was second nature as we geared up and walked down to the first of many honey-holes. I tied on a Royle Wulff and immediately began catching fish.

After losing my fly to a small brown with a deep throat, I fumbled through a few patterns before I regained my momentum. I tied on a modified Boots Allen Emerger with a PT tail and body and the catch rate maintained from then on with about 90% Browns and 10% bows/cutbows.

Craig and I both had great success. I love catching fish on flies I tied and a rod that I assembled. Where these fish lack in size, they make up for in therapeutic value. With my batteries recharged, I'm ready for another week.

Fishing Placed on the Back-burner

2009-09-09T20:31:00.008-06:00

I inherited my '93 Toyota Pickup about ten years ago after my Pickle-Rocket ('89 Nissan mini-pickup) fell victim to a hit and run. I've had to do little in the past ten years to keep it running strong. But all came to a head when I took it in for a safety inspection. A big red FAIL was issued due to worn-out brakes and the hood was held down by a bungee cord. And on top of that, it was diagnosed with intermittent starting disorder.
I THOUGHT I was mechanically inclined and this little weekend project would only take me out of the game for a day. I started by cleaning the battery terminals in hopes it would resolve the starting issue...wrong. Then I placed the truck on MacGyver jacks stands found in my back yard and began tearing into the axles. The brakes were paper-thin and the rotors were scratched and covered in rust. My little helper helped me lose a few parts along the way, but he got a good dose of grease in the process. After countless hours and lost fishing trips, I got it going strong with new brakes, rotors, battery cables, and a hood that latched.

I felt about the same way before it was done.

Hook Sharpening Tool

2009-08-23T14:13:00.009-06:00

I bought a hook sharpener a few weeks ago in hopes to church up some Mustads. The one I bought was designed with anglers in mind...but was way too coarse and didn't allow for the off-set of the hook point. Long story short, it was a piece of shit.

While scoping for more fly tying deals at my local Ace, I decided to take a detour over to the hardware section. I stumbled upon this little contraption and it looks like it will fit the bill. After some investigation, I found that DMT produces an "Angler; MiniSharp" with a groove for the hook. But this Diamond MiniSharp should be just as good and is $5 less. It folds up nicely to fit in a pack/vest and doesn't require any oil; just dip it in the stream and sharpen away!

Yahoo Has Me Pegged

2009-08-23T07:43:00.006-06:00

While checking my "Feedjit" this morning, I noticed someone linked to my site by "Yahoo.search". I like to know how people find my site and what they are looking for. But I was a little surprised to find out Yahoo was profiling me. For those who don't know me, I have "Googley Eyes" aka, Congenital Nystagmus, aka my eyes wiggle a lot...uncontrollably...

The following in a screen-shot of the search results.

Life goes on with googley eyes, but it makes it hard to spot fish. (I'm also color-blind, so that really makes it hard)

A Little Something My Nephew Cooked Up

2009-08-21T23:05:00.003-06:00

Southern Utah Browns on Hoppers

2009-08-18T12:13:00.010-06:00

I went to bed at 3am, up at 5:30am and I was ready to go. After meeting up with Kyle and Matt, I followed them to our destination. Matt was finally able to ride shotgun since I had to work at 3:30pm (don't get too comfortable fool!). We stepped out into frigid cold and I could barely tie my knots while I shivered for warmth. I decided to go with a combo of meat and subsurface. I tied a few articulated Zoo Cougars and I was hoping to hook some nice browns on them. I also rigged a great pattern that's got the masses talking, if only they knew!
I took the first couple runs hostage hoping to break in the day with some vicious predatory strikes. I had a brownie chase and mouth my fly, but I didn't set the hook in fear I would pierce Matt's other ear (he walked behind me at the wrong time). I got back at him later in the day when I tried to "help him tail" his fish of the day, at least 18"+.
Matt ad Kyle both seemed to have the magic with the larger browns. I on the other hand was bating cleanup on brownie crumbs.

It was my turn to cast first in a small pool. On the first cast, my thingamabobber almost became a victim to assault. Before I could switch to a hopper/dropper, Kyle jumped in with his trusty Joe's Hopper. He hoked and landed a beauty. The further we waded up, the better it got. I switched to a green Stimi and caught some brownies on top. I switched to a green Dave's Hopper after some advice from the beer-man.
Time was drawing close for me to part ways and head to work, but I hated to leave. I slaughtered a stretch of prime water with risers along he whole run. When I say "slaughter" I don't mean the fish...only the water with missed takes and sloppy casts. With minutes to spare, I spotted a pool with a small tributary flowing into it. The pool was shaded with over-hanging grass and I knew this was my best chance to get a sizable fish. A few casts went unnoticed until I hooked into my fish of the day. It swallered my hopper real nice and I landed it after a great fight.

I decided this was a great point to end my day. Kyle and Matt were nice enough to walk back with me to the trucks. My chicken legs felt like noodles as I tried to navigate down stream. Kyle showed off his ballerina skills, but took a couple dips in the process. I lika the hoppas!

2009-08-04T21:22:00.001-06:00

9 Ball Quick Fire Pool

Pocket as many pool balls as you can before the time runs out!

Play this free game now!!

Cool Fish Related Videos

2009-08-02T23:20:00.006-06:00

28 min video about the history and decline of the Cutthroat Trout. I had to download the video to view it.

http://www.idahoafs.org/video.php

Cool video of Mike Kasic floating down the Yellowstone River with only a wetsuit and a helmet.

http://www.mikekasicsound.com/FishMan.swf

Day #2 on Cedar Mountain

2009-08-01T00:42:00.004-06:00

When Katy asked me last night how I planned to keep Connor entertained today, I wasn't planning to go on the mountain again. I considered heading south and picking up some tying supplies and getting a double double fix. But the weather was way too hot to even stay in Cedar, so I packed another lunch and we headed back to higher altitude. The weather was calm today without the threat of rain and lightning.

I tied up a few #16 Butch Caddis last night. I used some of the cheap antron from Robert's Craft; it made a great segmented body. These things float like a cork!

I took Connor to the spot I fished yesterday while he watched his DVD. The water is shallow and the banks are low. It was tough to find holding water, but I was able to get a few little Brookies coaxed to my fly. I spent more time watching Connor then fishing. He is such a joy to have along.

We moved spots and Connor took a nap while I fished the Brook Meadow. When Connor woke up, we went on a short hike.

We ended the day on the Meadows and I rigged Connor's DVD up while I made a few casts. A couple smaller browns and a decent one before it was time to head home. I met a guy from Vegas just as I got back to my truck. He said yesterday there was a strong PMD hatch and he caught a lot of fish. We swapped stories and I excused myself to get Connor home for bed.

2009-07-30T16:48:00.007-06:00

I took Connor and Oakley up on Cedar Mountain for a boys' day out. Katy left this morning for SLC to visit friends and go to a wedding. Luckily I brought along Connor's favorite DVD to keep him entertained enough to let me fish for a quick moment.

I took a little break and waited for the rain to subside. I think I replayed "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" about 12 times for Connor while I waited.

I got one quick shot before the lightning got too close for comfort. We headed home and rocked a pepperoni and mushroom pizza from Bruno's.

Boulder Mountain Bash

2009-07-28T21:40:00.010-06:00

Matt has the schematics of the trip. But long story short, after many trials and tribulations (including nearly gluing my shirt to my arm with Zap a gap), I finally caught a Tiger! I got it to hand, but it slipped off the hook right when I was picking it up for the photo-op. But maybe I'll have photographic proof of my second Tiger.

Thanks to the Blood-thirsty Chucko, we had some tasty Brookies for tacos; fresh from the lake to our plates.

We finished off the trip on one of my favorite streams and had a fair share of fish sub-surface and a few on dries and streamers. Usually the irrigation flow is too high to fish the stream this time of year, but it was perfect. But I can't wait for this fall!

Kyle was nice enough to not only drive, but bring along snacks. Thanks again!

Mutant Mouse

2009-07-21T13:26:00.005-06:00

I'm heading to the Boulder Mountains tomorrow and looking forward to catching fish on mouse patterns. I added a little glow in the dark foam to these flies. I think it will make things a little easier at night. I'll report back soon!

This is a modified "Matt Hynes Mouse". I really like this fly and he has a great tutorial on how to tie it. I had the hardest time spinning hair until I viewed his other tutorial on spinning hair. I used GSP 100 thread and didn't have any issues breaking the thread, but I cut the foam and hair a couple times from too much pressure.

Ode to my Fishing Fuel...

2009-07-20T01:15:00.007-06:00

Double chin, here I come...

Multi-Species Marathon

2009-07-11T12:27:00.010-06:00

I got home from work at 12:30am and quickly packed for the following day. 5:45am and I was up for the day. The plan was to head North and fish til dark. Kyle drove, Matt sat bitch, and I stretched my legs out shotgun. Last minute we took a diversion east and started out on the old-mill section. It was a little slow in the beginning. I picked up a little brown on a #16 PT. When I tried to take a picture, the battery on my camera was dead! I thought it was fully charged, but luckily Kyle and Matt had there's. Thanks for letting me poach some pics for my post. I picked out a nice Cutt a little further up. I'm positive it took the lead fly, but it was fouled by the dropper when I got it up to me. I only caught one more before Matt and I met up and started leap-frogging pools. Kyle went back to get the truck and we planned to eat lunch and move spots. While we were waiting for Kyle, we came upon a nice stretch of pocket pools. I switched to a dry/dropper set-up and immediately started hooking into fish. While Matt quickly switch to a matching rig, I cleaned out the rest of the pool. Matt stepped up to the plate and immediately hooked into a bruiser.

The casting was tight, but we managed to pick up a fair number of Browns and Bows. Kyle finally found us and got in on the action.

We drove up to Snake Creek and made a quick stop to pick up a few fish. I hoped the fish would be a little bigger, but they were fun still the same. The hot sun was beating down on us, so we opted to head to a cooler spot. I cut my "small-stream" teeth on this mountain. But I've never fished this particular canyon. Every time I've driven past, I always thought it was too steep and the water too wild. But last time Craig and I went to our usual spot, we noticed a good access point. I directed Kyle down a hidden dirt road and it stopped at the stream's edge. The water was clear and not too fast; the canyon turned out to be a hidden gem! Its banks were steep and littered with logs and huge boulders. The water spilled over multiple small falls. But with each tier we climbed, we found a new series of pocket pools and runs. The air was filled with bugs big and small. I kept seeing what I thought was Salmonflies, but I couldn't find any in the stream-side brush. But once I quit looking, one fell out of the sky in front of me.

I'd already caught a couple Brookies, but this little guy slammed my Amy's Ant right when it hit the water.

We finished off the evening watching Matt clean out the last pool and snaking Kyle's Brookie he was too lazy (or in too much pain) to catch.

Hurst Hook-up

2009-07-07T14:49:00.009-06:00

I got a grab bag of goodies today from my only local source of fly tying gear (except Robert's craft). A couple months ago, I was going through a phase where I bought fly tying gear on a daily basis. One of the guys at Ace told me to save my money because he was getting ready to clearance a bunch of tying stuff and he'd give me first dibs on the goods.
Since then I've been hassling him to give me to call to come by and claim my reward for being his best fly tying customer. Last Sunday while on a break from work, He gave me the go-ahead to come in today and pick through the bin.
It was overwhelming all the items to choose from. I mixed items of need and wants together and depending on the price he gave me, I could put things back. I told him I only had about $60 and he said he'd give me the pile of wants and needs for $55 plus tax!
I walked out with;
2 vises
10+ pks of tungsten beads
5+ pks of cyclops beads
2 hair stackers
4 pairs of Wapsi scissors
8+ pks of TMC hooks
4+ pks Mustad hooks (original and signature)
15+ spools of thread
A tool/thread holder
and various other tools and material

This is a rough estimate of retail cost of items...

81% off...Not a bad deal!

I met Kyle back at Ace about an hour later and Kyle picked up the remainder of the items, with a few extras, for a fair price!

Oakley on the A

2009-07-04T12:39:00.005-06:00

It was Oakley's second birthday July 1st. I took him Back to the A and camped out on a little meadow next to the stream. I got there a little late; I had to complete some maintenance on the truck. But I planned to complete one of my 2009 goals OTF, so I planned to fish far into the night. I purchased a new head lamp that included a night setting with two red LED lights. I hoped to be able to see better at night without spooking the fish.

I didn't worry about setting up camp, the fish were rising and the river was calling my name. I hiked down stream to about where I started last week. I rigged my DC SigV 3wt with a dry and put a mouse pattern on the XP 5wt. I started with the mouse and had a few aggressive strikes in the first couple pools. But no solid hook-ups. I gave up on the mouse for a while and decided to fish to the rising trout. I caught a few stockies on top and headed up stream. There is a pool where a fence runs into the river that has a giant brown in it. I saw it last time chasing an eight inch trout. I wanted to break my mouse curse with it. As I came up to the pool, I could see it working in the current. I got into position and right as I was about to cast, Oakley decided to take a dip. The brown was spooked and I was forced to move on. I caught a few more stockies as I rounded the bend to my campsite. I dropped the 3wt off at my truck and worked a pool close to my campsite. I lost the first mouse pattern in the tree behind me. The second fell victim to the log across the river. I had one more, but it wasn't my best tie.

This pattern wasn't making much of a splash when it hit and I wasn't getting the follows like I had with the other two wayward mice. I switched to various patterns of meat without much success.

I ended up tying on a zonker leech and drift it under the biggest Thingamabobber I had. I ended up using the 2 white LED setting when I was drifting the rig. The red light would dissipate too much to see my drift. I caught a number of 13"ish Stockies but not browns. I called it a night and went back to set up camp.

The next morning, I got up early and set out down stream for what I hoped a phenomenal day. I never broke the mouse curse, but I caught my fair share of stocked trout. I think its time to find a new stretch, I think I'm tapped on the stockie-bows. But by the end of the trip, Oakley is much more comfortable with the water and is much more willing to follow me across. He loved to chase after the hooked fish, even in deeper water that required a breast stroke. Happy Birthday Oakley!

Jealous Fishing Buddy

2009-06-23T16:46:00.007-06:00

Katy suggested I go fishing this morning since she was planning to visit her sister today. I put everything together last night before going to bed. Four hours later, I was up and getting ready for the day. Kyle and his crew went yesterday and had limited success. The report was the fish were easily spooked and not very hungry. I wanted to bring Oakley, but I was afraid he might spook the fish. But last minute as I was feeding him his diet chow, I couldn't resist taking him along.
I dropped the tail gate of my pickup and Oakley jumped in without prompting. We got to the stream around 7:30a. I've fished this stream a few times and have never caught many fish. But I knew eventually my fishing curse would have to pass. Oakley was a little hesitate to follow me across the stream. Apparently this Golden is afraid of water!
I hooked into a 16"+ Brown in one of the first holes. It had been such a long time since I've seen my indicator drop, I almost forgot what to do. It bulldogged to the bottom and wasn't about to let up. But just as I was landing it, it came unbuttoned.
A few more casts and I snagged up on a subsurface branch. I pulled my fly free and my hand was covered with midge larva. I switched my bottom fly to a #16 black body w/ gold rib Zebra and the fun started from there. I hooked rainbow after rainbow for the next few hours. Although they were stocked trout with poorly developed fins, I was happy to actually catch a number of fish on an outing. Man I needed that.

It seems that Kyle is a little jealous of Oakley getting the spotlight on fisheatflies. Well after an outing like this, I wonder if Kyle has been the bad luck charm. But just so he feels included, here's your spotlight Kyle...

Kolob Kyle and I started fishing together early this spring. On that outing, neither of us caught fish. In fact most of our fishing trips together, neither of us catch many fish. Kyle has stress urinary incontinence in the evenings and if you ever go on an overnight fishing trip with him, never get between him and the bathroom. With his DDMR yellow Chums and his trusty orange fishing shirt, Kyle woos the fish into submission. He secretly eats bananas when no one is watching and blames others for the low catch rate. He is top-crust in his 7-year-old Simms and bottle of Purell. Kyle is dedicated to the sport of fly fishing and I am pleased to call him a friend.

New Fishing Buddy

2009-06-22T00:14:00.003-06:00

Katy's sister was nice enough to give Oakley to us. He's two years old and loves to be outside. Katy grew up with a Golden named Bently and I'm excited for Connor to be able to have the same opportunity. At the park today, I felt like a cliche...wife, toddler, and a Golden. He still needs a little training, but I think he will be a great fishing companion.

Trip to Bishop Jan and Grandma Marg's

2009-06-21T11:53:00.011-06:00

I went on a family vacation the beginning of June. The plan was to spend the first part of the trip with my wife and son and meet up with a few friends later in the week. We stayed at Bishop Jan and Grandma Marg's in Payson most of the trip. The first night, I snuck up the canyon just before dark and was able to coax a small Cutt to a white GF just before dark. Although I went a few more times for a quick fishing session, that was my first and last trout on that little stream.

I planned to go fishing with Jed Tues AM, but due to family illness, Jed was unable to make it. I still went that AM and fished a river I hoped would clear. The water was running high and slightly off-color. Once I picked a starting point, I began working the edges. I missed a few subtle strikes, but the fish didn't look very active. I came upon a grassy bank along the outside of a bend that look promising. After spooking a fat brown with sloppy wading, I watched my step. I cast my rig along the edge of the bank and immediately hooked into a fatty. It shot into the fast current and before I had a chance to think, it was gone. A few steps forward and the scenario repeated. I was bound to get it right eventually! The next fish I hooked into, (all within about 50 feet of bank) I jumped into the river and ran to the other side. I was able to keep up with the fish and landed it in a small pool below where I'd hooked it.

As the morning's crisp air began to warm, I noticed what I'd hope to see on this trip...Salmonflies!

I tied an Amy's Ant on and hoped for the best. I didn't see any fish rising, but I knew they couldn't pass up my morsel of foam, fur and feathers. I was able to hook a 13"ish brown that came unbuttoned once it got below me. I guess the fish must have gorged themselves on SF before I got there. As I drove out of the canyon, I stopped to speak to a couple spin fisherman that reported the SF were all over the place a little further down. And the fishing was slow for them too.

We took Connor to the Zoo the next day. It was raining off and on all day. We had a couple hours before we were to meet Katy's friends at the Pie. We took a small detour and I was able to make a few casts in the rain. Earlier in the week when I fished this stream, I didn't bring any wading gear. I wore my hiking shoes and rolled up my pants. The water was freezing! and it was all I could do to stay out of the water as much as possible. But this time, I luckily had my waders and rain jacket. I fished poorly and spent most of my time untangling my line from the trees above. Just before having to leave for some tasty pizza and micro-brewed beer (heavy on the root), I hooked into a little cutt.

The beginning of my fishing trip began Thursday morning. I've been wanting to fish Pinder's Pond for a few months. I packed the car the night before so I could get an early start. Just as I was putting my cereal bowl in the sink, Bishop Jan came out and asked to tag along. It was another hour before we left, but I was happy to have the company.

The drive took forever, but we finally pulled up to the bank of the lake and I unloaded my gear. It looked like it was going to be a good day. I spoke to a couple fisherman and they reported mixed results. Right as I go into the water, I could hear splashing from the other side of the lake. Two anglers stood perched on the edge of a steep drop-off. One with a bent rod, the other with a full net. The Tiger trout had to be over 25"! "that's got to be the biggest fish I've ever caught" echoed in my ears. I hoped to make the same statement by day's end.

After many failed attempts to hook into a fish, I got out of the tube and worked the shore-line. Within the first few cast, I hooked into a bright red Cutt.

A storm rolled in with hail, thunder, and lightning. I hid under my POS1997 and waited out the storm. I wasn't sure if it would ever pass. The lightning looked as if it were at my toes and thunder rattled me to my soul. Once things looked to clear a little, I came out from under my tube and began to fish. I hoped the storm would wake up the fishing. I began to hear a buzzing noise and looked around to see what it was. My body began to tingles and it felt like my eyelashes were standing on end. I threw my rod down and began to run until the feeling subsided. I thought I was about to become a crispy-critter!. After that, I grabbed my gear and walked around to meet BJ on the south side of the lake. I spooked a pig of a tiger on the way over. After lunch, I went out for more abuse. Without any more action, I called it a day. Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

I made plans to pick Kyle up around 6:15am the next morning. Were planned to meet Cheif Wiggum on the way up to Pinder's Pond. But a missed exit in the fog left us headed the wrong direction. Wiggum went ahead of us and we planned to meet at Pinder's. As we rolled up, Dan and Charlie's had their lines in the water. We worked the shallow side for a few hours. Fish came and went, but none stayed to play on the end of my line. Dan successfully foul hooked a few Cutts in the mouth. Kyle was also able to coax a Cutt to his fly. The Tigers didn't seem to want anything to do with us. Just before leaving, I hooked into one, but it came unbuttoned faster then a prom dress.

We went to a stream running high and clear. I was intimidated by the fast, deep flow. I don't think I would have waded it had I not seen Dan and Charlie in it already. I'd never fished in water like this. I had difficulty getting my fly down deep enough. I spilt all my split-shot out as I tried to add more and more weight. Luckily it all fell into my pack and I was able to retrieve it.

We moved to a new spot after dropping Charlie off at another spot. Kyle gave me the secret weapon. As I tied it onto the end of my fly, Kyle and Dan walked ahead of me. I didn't see which way they went, and at first went the complete wrong way. After some prayers and a little luck, I spotted them. Dan had just missed a trout as I walked up. A few minutes later, Dan was hooked into a beast. It looked to be nice, but it never came to say hello. After a respectful fight, it headed down stream and spit the hook.

Kyle and Dan both picked up fish as I flogged the water. I had a great time even though the fish were prudes.

2009-06-02T14:05:00.004-06:00

Katy and I made a deal that if I would exercise with her this summer, she would fly fish with me. I held up my part of the bargain for the past few weeks and now it was time to cash in.
After work, we loaded up the car and headed out for a fishing adventure. I've fished Bean Stream a few times, but haven't been back for a few years. As we got close to the stream, we saw a turkey with its two chicks in tow.

I set Katy up with an "Amy's Ant" and a SJW. I had her make a few practice casts to get the feeling of the rod. Katy has gone with me a few times and she can place the fly where it needs to go. But she's never connected with a fish by herself on a fly rod. Katy made some good casts and we went to the first hole. It was a tough cast with many branches to tango with. But Katy was able to get the fly in the small current running into the pool. She had a few takes, but her timing was off. I stood behind her and helped her cast right up into the head of the pool and showed her how to hold the rod tip and take up line to avoid drag. We caught a couple fish tandem. Katy made a few more casts and the hole seemed to go stale. While Katy walked up to the next hole, Connor and I found "big rocks" to throw in the stream. Conner was not happy when I would stop searching for throwing rocks to snap a picture of him or mom.

I began flipping rocks over in the stream and showing Connor all the bugs that live under them. This stone fly's older brothers and sisters were flying around taunting the fish.

Without waders, Katy and I were limited to only a few accessible runs and pools to fish in this area. We went back through the best sections and tried to pick up any fish still hungry. Katy had many takes, but her timing was still off and they would disappear before the point of the hook could settle in their mouth. We loaded back in the car and drove along the dirt road a little further. The stream meandered through thick brush and hid in deep slots cut into the mountainside. We came upon a meadow where the stream slowly curved around its edge. I re-rigged the rod and handed it to Katy. There was only one pool with good current and the light was beginning to fade. I coached Katy as she tried to get a drag-free drift. Connor was still in the car munching on gold fish crackers. Connor realized he was alone and the jig was up. I ran back to the car to entertain Connor as Katy continued her quest. "Mike, I got one!" The rod was bent and Katy had a grin from ear to ear. I grabbed Connor in one hand and the camera in the other and ran to see her prize.

Katy's first fish on a fly rod by herself! I was so over-joyed. I helped her release the fish and it swam back to its home. As we drove back to our home, we couldn't stop talking about how wonderful this evening was. "That was fun! Now I'm going to be jealous when you go fishing without me." I think Katy is converted to a fly rod on small streams.